1.
He had the cold for 5 days before the symptoms began to _________________.
Explanation
The word "abate" means to become less intense or widespread. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that the symptoms of the cold started to decrease or lessen after 5 days.
2.
When she got home 2 hours after curfew, Aaliyah's parents ________________ her about where she had been and who she was with.
Explanation
The word "accosted" means to approach or confront someone aggressively or boldly. In this context, Aaliyah's parents confronted her about where she had been and who she was with when she arrived home 2 hours after curfew.
3.
Because they loved their children, the parents were careful to have an ________________ divorce so that their children would not feel pressured.
Explanation
The parents wanted to ensure that their children did not feel any pressure or negativity during their divorce. Therefore, they opted for an amicable divorce, which means that they approached the process in a friendly and cooperative manner. This decision was driven by their love for their children and the desire to minimize any negative impact on them.
4.
Getting good grades in order to get accepted into a good college or trade school is something to which every student should _______________.
Explanation
Every student should aspire to get good grades in order to secure admission into a good college or trade school. Aspiring to achieve high academic performance demonstrates a strong desire and ambition to succeed in education. By setting a goal to obtain good grades, students are motivated to work hard, stay focused, and develop necessary skills and knowledge. This aspiration not only increases their chances of getting accepted into a reputable institution but also paves the way for future academic and career opportunities.
5.
Many people were repulsed by the candidate's ____________________ behavior. They did not like how he mocked women and the handicapped.
Explanation
The correct answer is "boorish". This adjective describes someone's behavior as rude, crude, and lacking manners or sensitivity. In this context, the candidate's behavior is being criticized for mocking women and the handicapped, which can be seen as disrespectful and offensive. The word "repulsed" further emphasizes the strong negative reaction that many people had towards this behavior.
6.
Maya felt humiliated and upset when the teacher began to ________________ her about her project. She knew that she had done her very best.
Explanation
Maya felt humiliated and upset when the teacher began to castigate her about her project. This suggests that the teacher criticized or reprimanded Maya harshly for her work. Maya's strong emotional reaction indicates that she was deeply affected by the teacher's negative feedback. Despite Maya's belief that she had put in her best effort, the teacher's castigation made her feel discouraged and disheartened.
7.
The way that the young man was rude to other students and didn't follow school rules was ________________. People did their best to avoid him.
Explanation
The correct answer is "contemptible". This word implies that the young man's behavior was deserving of contempt or disdain. His rudeness and disregard for school rules made him unpleasant to be around, causing people to actively avoid him.
8.
Originally people doubted her story, then others stepped forward to ____________________ what she said showing that she was telling the truth.
Explanation
The word "corroborate" means to support or confirm the truth of something. In this context, it implies that other people came forward and provided evidence or testimony that supported what the person was saying, thus proving that she was telling the truth.
9.
Algebra was difficult for Ty, until he stayed after school for tutoring. Mr. Thomas had a way to ________________ the whole process!
Explanation
Mr. Thomas had a way to demystify the whole process of learning algebra for Ty. This means that Mr. Thomas was able to make algebra less confusing and easier to understand for Ty through his tutoring sessions after school.
10.
Aaliyah always worried about what people thought about her and paid more attention to people's opinions and her popularity than to her grades. Then when she was in her 2nd semester of her 9th grade year, she had an _____________________ : she wanted to go on to a fabulous career and these people wouldn't be her friends or be there for her in 8 years! She needed good grades to get into the school of her choice; her grades were more important that her popularity!
Explanation
Aaliyah had a sudden realization or epiphany that the opinions of others and her popularity were not as important as her grades. She recognized that in order to achieve her goal of a successful career, she needed to prioritize her academic performance over seeking validation from others. This realization prompted her to shift her focus and prioritize her grades, understanding that they would ultimately determine her future opportunities.
11.
It is ______________________ to fill out your Study Skills Classes Log, not only because it is part of your grade, but also because it is a useful tool in helping you to stay organized with all of your classes.
Explanation
The word "expedient" means convenient or practical. In the given context, it is important to fill out the Study Skills Classes Log because it is not only a requirement for your grade but also a helpful tool in staying organized with all of your classes. Therefore, it is expedient to complete the log.
12.
When the student put her hand on her hip, rolled her eyes and said "Whatever!", the teacher was quite upset about her ___________________ behavior.
Explanation
The word "flippant" describes a disrespectful or dismissive attitude. In this scenario, the student's behavior of putting her hand on her hip, rolling her eyes, and saying "Whatever!" shows a lack of respect and a dismissive attitude towards the teacher. This behavior would understandably upset the teacher, as it shows a lack of seriousness and disregard for authority.
13.
When it came to football, the quarterback was an _______________________ leader; focused, talented and he didn't shy away from anyone.
Explanation
The word "intrepid" means fearless or bold. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that the quarterback was a courageous and confident leader in football. He was not afraid of any challenges or opponents and remained focused on his goals.
14.
Filing a ____________________________ claim with the IRS is not only wrong, it can also end up with the person getting a huge fine or even jail time!
Explanation
Filing a fraudulent claim with the IRS is not only wrong, it can also end up with the person getting a huge fine or even jail time. This means that if someone intentionally submits false information or misrepresents their income or deductions in an attempt to receive a larger tax refund or avoid paying taxes, they are engaging in fraudulent activity. The IRS takes tax fraud very seriously and has severe penalties in place to deter individuals from committing such acts.
15.
When she saw the long lines at the cash register and how slow the clerk was moving, the customer became very ____________________.
Explanation
The customer became very irate because she saw the long lines at the cash register and how slow the clerk was moving.
16.
Mr. Rogers is so wise and fair that Mrs. Moroney believes that he is the _______________ of all wisdom!
Explanation
Mrs. Moroney believes that Mr. Rogers is the oracle of all wisdom because he is extremely wise and fair. An oracle is someone who possesses great knowledge and insight, often considered to be a source of divine wisdom. Therefore, Mrs. Moroney sees Mr. Rogers as someone who has profound wisdom and the ability to provide guidance and knowledge beyond that of ordinary individuals.
17.
You can look at some people's foolishness, and wonder if they even have a __________________ of sense.
Explanation
The word "modicum" means a small amount or a small degree of something. In this context, the phrase "if they even have a modicum of sense" suggests that the people being referred to lack even a small amount of common sense or intelligence. The word "modicum" emphasizes the idea that these individuals have very little sense or rationality.
18.
She was so rich. She had a ___________________ amount of money, more than she knew what to do with.
Explanation
The word "prodigious" means enormous or immense. In this context, it suggests that the woman had an exceptionally large amount of money, far beyond what she needed or could even comprehend. The word choice emphasizes the magnitude of her wealth and conveys the idea that she had an overwhelming abundance of money.
19.
He knew so much about all sports that he was considered a ____________________ by sports fans.
Explanation
The word "pundit" refers to someone who is highly knowledgeable and expert in a particular field, in this case, sports. The sentence suggests that the person mentioned has extensive knowledge about all sports, which makes him highly respected and regarded by sports fans. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "pundit."
20.
Getting to know the people in your group or class, having a good _________________ with them is essential to the success of a club or class.
Explanation
Having a good rapport with the people in your group or class is essential to the success of a club or class. Building rapport means establishing a positive and harmonious relationship with others, which fosters open communication, trust, and cooperation. When there is a good rapport among members, they are more likely to work together effectively, share ideas, and support each other's goals. This ultimately contributes to the overall success and productivity of the group or class.
21.
The teacher had to ________________________ the student who was always late to class and never prepared with his materials.
Explanation
The teacher had to reproach the student who was always late to class and never prepared with his materials. This means that the teacher had to express disapproval or disappointment towards the student's behavior. The word "reproach" implies that the teacher had to confront the student about his consistent lateness and lack of preparation, possibly in order to address the issue and encourage better behavior in the future.
22.
At a funeral, people try to offer ___________________ the family and loved ones of the departed.
Explanation
At a funeral, people try to offer solace to the family and loved ones of the departed. Solace refers to comfort or consolation in a time of sadness or distress. It is a way for people to provide emotional support and offer a sense of peace and relief to those who are grieving. By offering solace, individuals aim to help ease the pain and sorrow experienced by the bereaved, showing empathy and understanding during this difficult time.
23.
My grandfather was a ___________________ Democrat. He even admitted that he would vote for Donald Duck if he ran on the Democratic Ballot because if Donald Duck was a Democrat he was obviously the right person for the job! (True Story! :-) )
Explanation
The word "staunch" means loyal, committed, or steadfast. In this context, it suggests that the speaker's grandfather was a strong and unwavering supporter of the Democratic party. The use of the word "even" implies that the grandfather's dedication to the party was so strong that he would support any candidate, even if it was a fictional character like Donald Duck, as long as they were a Democrat. This highlights the grandfather's unwavering loyalty and commitment to his political beliefs.
24.
To the Catholic people, the Pope is considered to be a man of great __________________.
Explanation
The word "piety" refers to a deep religious devotion and reverence. In the context of the Catholic Church, the Pope is seen as the spiritual leader and the highest authority, therefore he is expected to embody and demonstrate exceptional piety. This includes a strong commitment to prayer, worship, and adherence to religious teachings. The Catholic people hold the Pope in high regard and believe that his piety is essential for his role as a representative of God on Earth.
25.
After a concussion, doctors check to see if a person is _______________; the need to be clear about the date, what happened and be able to be easily understood.
Explanation
After a concussion, doctors check to see if a person is lucid. This means that they need to be clear about the date, what happened, and be able to be easily understood. Being lucid indicates that the person's mental state is clear and they are able to think and communicate effectively, which is important for assessing their recovery and determining if any further medical intervention is required.